Northrop Grumman Corporation joined Rheinmetall, Lockheed Martin and German officials for a groundbreaking ceremony in Weeze, Germany to establish a second F-35 center fuselage Integrated Assembly Line (IAL) with Rheinmetall AG. The IAL will help meet increased demands for the fifth-generation fighter aircraft while bolstering defense capabilities with allied nations throughout Europe.

“The success of the IAL addresses Northrop Grumman’s vision to affordably manufacture a quality next-generation aircraft that meets the needs of a growing number of international customers,” said Tom Jones, corporate vice president and president, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. “Combined with Rheinmetall’s experience with German Armed Forces and European industry, the collaboration with Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin will foster critical skills and energize the region’s economy with high-tech job opportunities.”